The Dallas music community has lost one of its most powerful voices.

 

Chadwick Murray, the lead vocalist for the soul powerhouse group Bastards of Soul, passed away on Wednesday, September 1, 2021 from "a rare and unexpected illness."

 

I'm starting this fundraiser to raise money to help start a college fund for Chadwick's newborn son and help his wife with expenses.

 

Chadwick leaves behind his wife and their newborn son as well as "a loving family, hundreds of close friends and thousands of fans on this Earth." Chadwick was one of kind with a true kind heart. He touched every life he came in contact with... his infectious laugh and smile brought happiness to all.

 

There are so many fun stories I have about Chadwick however, the best story was listening to him talk about his bride and his baby son that was born one week before Chadwick passed away. The sparkle in his eyes told a powerful story of love, becoming a father for the first time, his love for his beautiful wife and how he loved his family and friends.

 

Chadwick had an extraordinary way of building relationships and a passion to serve others. I remember him telling me “My mom instilled a service-oriented outlook in me at a young age,” he said, “It’s in my heart to serve others and I am grateful for the life lessons she taught me to be successful in everything I do.”

 

Chadwick’s band Bastards Of Soul were featured in Rolling Stone after contributing to a new compilation, Truth to Power, which will benefit four non-profits that help underrepresented and underserved communities in Texas: the Music Forward Foundation, For Oak Cliff, Joppy Momma’s Farm, and Young Leaders, Strong City. In addition to Bastards of Soul’s work on the compilation, Leon Bridges, Keite Young, Black Pumas and others made appearances on the album.

 

Chadwick’s inclusion on the compilation didn't come as a surprise to anyone – in 2020 alone, Bastards of Soul were named Best Album by Dallas Observer, Best R&B/Soul Act Central Track Album Winner, and took home a Telly Award, in addition to one of their tracks being featured on a Coors Light commercial.

 

Since taking over the Dallas / Fort Worth music scene by storm in 2016, the band has continued to make a name for itself through their dynamic live set and tight musical chops. With Chadwick’s charisma, the super-tight rhythm section the bass and traps anchors a groove that's simultaneously sweet and gritty with Chadwick's sound to soulful perfection.

 

An extraordinary life gone too soon.

 

I hope you find it in your heart to contribute. Thank you and Bless you for your kindness and generosity.

 

 

 

Chadwick and I were friends... a close bond and great relationship. I am local in the Dallas area and hoping to pay it forward for Chadwick's family. The funds raised will go toward starting a college fund for his newborn son and help his wife with expenses.